A Helping Hand
This information is provided to assist students and parents in understanding the Bursary Award policies of the Bermuda School of Music (BSM). Every effort will be made to assist those students who, because of financial constraints, would otherwise be unable to study at the BSM.
The BSM relies on funding from companies and individuals for the bursary monies, which currently amounts to $50,000 per year.
This is a means-based bursary, to assist students who could not otherwise afford lessons.
In addition to the completed application, a student personal statement is required and is to include music education, performance and musical aspirations.
Teacher evaluations help to determine the suitability of the applicant by assessing the level of commitment and motivation. Minimum time in studio, participation and attendance of group classes and whem applicable, ensembles, practice, teacher evaluations and term reviews also have a bearing on whether the award will be continued for subsequent terms in the year. Reference letters are not to be given to the student but sent directly to the address link here.
Applicants will be reviewed by the Bursaries Award Committee.
Bursaries are granted on an annual basis and recipients must re-apply for each new school year. Any assistance received is applied per term. It is not given in cash. A one-year commitment to study is required by the student. Any student who must withdraw should give the six weeks’ notice required by the regular enrollment policy and funds will not be credited toward future enrollment.
If there is a reduction in lesson time, the award will be reduced proportionately. Any increase in lesson time will not result in a proportionate increase in the award.
Assistance may be withdrawn at any time if, in the opinion of the teacher, the recipient fails to meet the commitment expected by the BSM as outlined above. Acceptance of a bursary carries with it an obligation on the part of the student and parent(s) to attend lessons on a regular basis and work diligently on their programme. The receipt of assistance does not guarantee future financial support.
No financial assistance will be considered for summer classes. Recipients may be asked to perform on behalf of the BSM as a way of thanking our corporate sponsors who fund the Bursary Programme. In addition, students may be asked to perform where the performance helps to promote both music and the BSM to the broader community.
Limitations in the amount of assistance available may mean that not every student with a demonstrated need can be helped. All applications received by the stated deadline will be considered equally and the BSM will assist as many students as possible.
Due to confidentiality, completed bursary applications to be submitted in writing or by email here and are not to be given or emailed to faculty.
Please contact us to discuss your needs orclick here to download an application for the 2025/26 academic year. You can also review our Term schedules and fees.